Looking at the postcard I received this morning from longtime friend Ernie, I think about the time I spent at his place a few years ago.

“It is really too warm to sit around the cabin.”

“Let’s drive to the lake and see if the trout are biting. If anything, it’s much cooler there,” Ernie reacts.

He and I have known each other for more than two decades. Although we don’t see each more than two or three times a year, our friendship is strong; built on a sense of kinship, mutual respect, and trust. Moreover, we share a passion for all things outdoors. Whenever I visit, we take every opportunity to go hiking or fishing; i.e., fly fishing.

Fly fishing, or more correctly, “fly casting”, is the art of placing an artificial fly in front of a fish, as to emulate a particular species of fish’s natural food. The fly is carried out by the fly line, which is cast out with a fly rod. Basic casting is not difficult to learn; with half-an-hour of practice you are able to go fishing.

As avid fly-fishers, Ernie and I are drawn to the water; that is where we enjoy being; that is where we thrive.

Over the years, I learned a lot from watching him fish. Once I discovered how to read the water, how to cast my line, and land a fish, most of my learning came from practice and thinking about my own fishing; before, during, and after each cast, and after every trip. Better still, I usually catch fish.

When I lift that trout out of the water, I am happy, even if only for a moment; I have a good reason to celebrate. Like many outdoor people, fishers love celebrating; as you may very well know.

After walking over to him and relighting my pipe, I ask, “What is it about fly fishing anyway?” 

Casting his line, he answers, “Well, the truth about fly fishing is, that it is great in every way, and when you discover that kind of greatness, you can’t ignore it; you’re hooked for life!”

“I guess we’re both hooked then!”  I say. “What do you think?”

“Let’s time return to the cabin and cook our catch,” he says, while landing his fourth trout.

“Let’s celebrate!”